Animal Caretakers vs. Childcare Workers: Who Earns More?
Animal Caretakers out-earn Childcare Workers by $380 a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Animal Caretakers land at $35,360 and Childcare Workers at $34,980. The education gap is real: animal caretaker programs typically require high school diploma or equivalent, while childcare worker programs require high school diploma or equivalent. Top-paying state for Animal Caretakers is District of Columbia ($44,210); for Childcare Workers it's District of Columbia ($47,340).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Animal Caretakers median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Animal Caretakers or Childcare Workers?
Animal Caretakers earn more nationally. The median is $35,360 for Animal Caretakers versus $34,980 for Childcare Workers, a difference of $380. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Animal Caretakers or Childcare Workers?
Animal Caretakers has the better 10-year outlook at 12.1% projected growth, compared to -2.9% for the other field. Both are from BLS Employment Projections.
Which requires more education, Animal Caretakers or Childcare Workers?
Animal Caretakers typically requires high school diploma or equivalent. Childcare Workers requires high school diploma or equivalent. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Animal Caretakers get paid the most?
District of Columbia is the top-paying state for Animal Caretakers at $44,210/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Animal Caretakers vs. Childcare Workers pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In District of Columbia, Animal Caretakers earn $44,210 vs. $47,340 for Childcare Workers. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.